Company Registration in Cyprus
Establish your business in Cyprus, a strategic EU location with one of Europe's lowest corporate tax rates at 12.5%. Gateway to European, Middle Eastern, and African markets.
Detailed Entity Comparison
Compare the key features and requirements of different business structures in Cyprus
| Feature | Private Limited Company (Ltd) | Public Limited Company (PLC) |
|---|---|---|
| Best For | Small to medium businesses, international holding structures | Large businesses planning to raise capital from public |
| Setup Time | 2-3 weeks | 3-4 weeks |
| Minimum Share Capital | €1 | €25,629 |
| Minimum Shareholders | 1 | 7 |
| Minimum Directors | 1 | 2 |
| Limited Liability | Yes | Yes |
| Corporate Tax Rate | 12.5% | 12.5% |
| Audit Required | Yes, annually | Yes |
Why Register in Cyprus?
Low Corporate Tax
12.5% corporate tax rate, one of the lowest in the EU
EU Member State
Full access to EU single market and freedom of movement
International Business Hub
Strategic location bridging Europe, Middle East, and Africa
Tax Treaties
Extensive double tax treaty network with 65+ countries
Company Types in Cyprus
Choose the right business structure for your needs
Private Limited Company (Ltd)
Most popular structure for SMEs and international businesses
Share capital minimum
€1
- Limited liability protection for shareholders
- Minimum 1 shareholder and 1 director
- Can be 100% foreign-owned
- Directors can be of any nationality
- No requirement for local director
Public Limited Company (PLC)
Suitable for larger businesses planning to raise capital
Share capital minimum
€25,629 (minimum)
- Can offer shares to the public
- Minimum 7 shareholders required
- Minimum 2 directors required
- Enhanced credibility for large-scale operations
- Subject to more regulatory requirements
Key Facts & Requirements
Corporate Tax Rate
12.5%
VAT Rate
19% (standard)
Incorporation Time
2-4 weeks
Accounting Required
Yes, annual audit
Annual Audit
Required for all companies
Local Director Required
No
Registration Process
Company Name Approval
Prepare Documentation
Open Bank Account
Company Registration
Tax Registration
Compliance Setup
Advantages & Considerations
Advantages
- 12.5% corporate tax - one of the lowest in the EU
- No withholding tax on dividends paid to non-residents
- Extensive double tax treaty network with 65+ countries
- 100% foreign ownership permitted
- EU member state with Euro currency
- Strategic location bridging Europe, Middle East, and Africa
- English is widely spoken and used in business
- Common law legal system
- No capital gains tax on sale of securities
- Fast incorporation process (2-4 weeks)
- No requirement for local directors
- Strong IP protection laws
- Growing fintech and tech startup ecosystem
Considerations
- All companies must undergo annual audit
- Minimum share capital requirement of €1,000
- Annual government fees and compliance costs
- Some international banks may scrutinize Cypriot companies
- Company information is publicly available
- Requires proper substance for tax benefits
- Banking can be selective for certain business types
- Distance from major European business centers
Detailed Registration Process
Company Name Reservation
Submit 3 proposed company names to the Registrar of Companies for approval. Name must end with 'Limited' or 'Ltd' and cannot be identical or too similar to existing companies.
Prepare Incorporation Documents
Draft Memorandum and Articles of Association defining company structure, share capital, director and shareholder details. Prepare certified copies of passports and proof of address for all directors and shareholders.
Open Corporate Bank Account
Open a bank account with a Cyprus bank and deposit the minimum share capital of €1,000. Bank will issue a certificate confirming the deposit.
Submit Registration Application
File all incorporation documents with the Registrar of Companies along with registration fees. This includes the Memorandum and Articles of Association and bank certificate.
Obtain Certificate of Incorporation
Upon approval, receive the Certificate of Incorporation and Certificate of Registered Office. Company is now legally registered.
Tax Registration
Register with the Tax Department for corporate tax and obtain VAT number if annual turnover exceeds €15,600. Register for social insurance if hiring employees.
Compliance Setup
Appoint auditor, set up accounting systems, establish registered office in Cyprus. Ensure company has adequate substance for tax purposes.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Price Summary - Cyprus
Final price may vary based on specific requirements
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